Hotel Continental, a luxury destination renowned for its wellness philosophy, aimed to elevate the guest experience in its suite bathrooms. To achieve this, the hotel partnered with Duka, a leader in high-quality shower enclosures, choosing models from their libero 3000 and natura 4000 series. This collaboration ensured the bathrooms were not just functional spaces but extensions of the hotel’s commitment to comfort and relaxation.
Duka’s Walk-in enclosures, featuring elegant black support bars, perfectly complement the modern, sophisticated aesthetic of the suites. However, the enclosures are more than just visually striking. Their ergonomic design provides guests with a private, relaxing space, enhancing their overall experience. By merging form and function, Duka helped Hotel Continental create a bathroom environment that aligns with the hotel’s high standards.
Duka’s reputation in the hospitality sector stems from its ability to deliver tailored solutions that cater to the specific demands of high-traffic spaces. Their enclosures are designed for easy installation, simplifying the process for installers, and effortless cleaning, which is crucial for maintaining hygiene in frequently used bathrooms. The durability of Duka’s products is further enhanced by UV adhesive technology, which flush-mounts metal components to tempered glass, creating smooth surfaces that are easy to clean. Sliding doors with detachable walls allow for improved cleaning access.
To ensure lasting brilliance, Duka offers innovative glass treatments like ProCare, which reduces water residue, and Protect, an anti-adhesive coating that prevents dirt and limescale build-up.
This partnership exemplifies how thoughtful design and functional excellence can elevate guest experiences, with Duka playing a key role in making Hotel Continental’s bathrooms both visually appealing and highly practical.
The Osko Village design delivers a harmonious balance of luxury and subtle minimalism, set within a pristine ecological enclave. TOL’KO Studio collaborated with CEA Design to create a sophisticated, nature-inspired living space that caters to modern sensibilities while embracing sustainable design practices.
Design and Layout
Situated in a rural village, this 420 m² villa blends modern aesthetics with traditional half-timbered architecture. The house stretches across three floors, each approximately 140 m², with expansive terraces offering panoramic views of the natural surroundings. The design prioritises functionality without compromising on style or sophistication.
Key to the design concept was the client’s desire to eliminate visible signs of everyday life. This objective was met by concealing storage solutions within the walls and utilising furniture as dividers between spaces. The entire residence is characterised by an open-plan layout with minimal use of doors, enhancing a sense of seamless flow.
Material Palette and Finishes
One of the highlights of this project is the choice of materials that harmonise with the villa’s natural surroundings. On the ground floor, the master bedroom is adorned with warm oak tones, fior di bosco marble, and soft whites. The natural oak theme is echoed throughout the house, not only in the flooring and furniture but also in the CEA Design’s GIOTTO collection used in the bathrooms.
The master bathroom has wall-mounted washbasin taps and bathtub fittings from the GIOTTO range, featuring AISI 316L stainless steel satin finishes and oak wood handles. This blend of natural wood and high-grade stainless steel complements the villa’s overall theme of understated luxury.
Key Design Elements
Open-Plan Living The absence of doors and the clever use of furniture as space dividers create a fluid, cohesive living experience across the three floors. This open-plan approach fosters a minimalist yet inviting atmosphere, perfectly suited for modern family living.
Natural Materials The extensive use of oak wood, alongside stainless steel and marble, ties the interior spaces to the natural beauty surrounding the villa. The wood finishes add warmth and accentuate the house’s eco-conscious design philosophy.
Functional Minimalism The design achieves a clean, clutter-free aesthetic by incorporating hidden storage solutions within the wall panels. This minimalist approach reflects the client’s desire for a living space that feels both open and refined.
GIOTTO Collection by CEA Design The GIOTTO bathroom fittings are crucial in enhancing the residence’s sophisticated atmosphere. The collection’s mixers, oak wood handles, and sleek stainless steel finishes align perfectly with the villa’s overarching design principles.
Technical Highlights: GIOTTO Collection
GIO11OS (X2): Wall-mounted washbasin taps with dual-handle mixers in AISI 316L stainless steel satin finish, complemented by oak wood handles.
GIO26WOS + FRE219S: Bathtub tap with progressive mixers, oak wood handles, spout, and hand shower with white silicone rubber hose.
GIO25WOS: Shower taps featuring progressive mixers and built-in rain jet shower heads with transparent silicone nozzles.
The Osko Village residence exemplifies a modern approach to luxury living, where thoughtful design meets functionality and aesthetic harmony. TOL’KO Studio’s meticulous attention to material selection, spatial planning, and subtle integration of storage systems has resulted in a home that offers elegance and comfort. The collaboration with CEA Design’s GIOTTO collection has further elevated the space, blending artisanal craftsmanship with cutting-edge design solutions.
For professionals in the kitchen, bathroom, and bedroom (KBB) sectors, this project offers a compelling example of how high-end design can meet contemporary living demands without compromising sustainability or style.
For more information on the GIOTTO collection by CEA Design, visit www.ceadesign.it.
For 2025, Dulux encourages architects, specifiers, and designers to embrace yellow, bringing a sense of optimism, pride, and imagination to their projects. To guide these professionals in introducing bold, positive shades to clients, the paint manufacturer has named True Joy™ as its Colour of the Year for 2025, supported by three adaptable ColourFutures™ palettes.
For over two decades, the Dulux Colour of the Year has been selected through in-depth trend research by Dulux’s colour experts and international design professionals. True Joy™ for 2025 is a bright and uplifting yellow, reflecting people’s desire to break free, reset, and innovate. Dulux also encourages designers to spread the joy of yellow, helping clients step out of their comfort zones and feel confident.
Yellow hues, like True Joy™, can be used as bold statement colours or as accents. To assist designers in advising clients on ideal colour pairings, Dulux has developed three supporting ColourFutures™ palettes:
Bold Colour Story: Inspired by the excitement of adventure, these bold hues inject spontaneity and energy into any space. Bright blues and oranges contrast beautifully with accent yellow, making them perfect for educational and office environments where inspiration and creativity are paramount.
Human Colour Story: Celebrating artisanal craftsmanship, these shades of wood and clay reflect the natural materials used in handmade processes. Ideal for educational and healthcare spaces, these colours bring warmth and authenticity.
Proud Colour Story: Drawing from diverse global cultures, these rich, earthy browns and greens celebrate the heritages that make us unique. These colours are well-suited for hospitality and residential environments, creating a welcoming, homely atmosphere.
Dawn Scott, Dulux Trade Senior Colour Designer, said: “True Joy™ and its complementary palettes offer a fresh perspective on how colour shapes our built environments. These colours aren’t just trends; they are tools for architects and specifiers to create spaces that reflect their clients’ values and visions, enhancing our experience of the spaces we live in.
“One of the most powerful applications of True Joy™ is within healthcare settings. When paired with the earthy, natural tones of the Human Colour Story, it can transform waiting rooms, corridors, and communal areas into uplifting and calming spaces. This combination brightens the atmosphere while connecting patients and staff to warmth, creativity, and well-being.”
Roca Group has acquired Innotec Systemelemente GmbH, German manufacturer of modular solutions for integrating structural elements in the bathroom. The purchase has been completed through Sanitärtechnik Eisenberg GmbH, the German subsidiary of Roca Group, specialist in bathroom installation systems.
Innotec offers a wide range of products that fit within Roca Group’s portfolio and supply chain, including modular solutions for integrating structural elements in the bathroom and other robotically welded fastening solutions. The company, located in Grossenhain (Germany), has 68 employees and reported a turnover of 24.7 million euros in 2023.
The acquisition’s purpose is to develop the business linked to bathroom installation systems, integrate it into the group’s overall activities, create synergies, and promote innovation in this area. For Roca Group, this acquisition is a strategic move due to the complementary nature of Innotec’s activities with its own portfolio and its growth potential in Europe and the EMEA region.
In the age of social media, the bathroom is no longer just a functional space; it’s a canvas for creativity, self-expression – and the perfect backdrop for that coveted Instagram shot.
Whether you’re refreshing your current space or embarking on a complete makeover, Victoria Plum’s interior design expert, Ruth Foster, is here to guide you through creating a bathroom that’s guaranteed to get you those double taps, while also maintaining the perfect balance of style and practicality.
It’s all about the mirror
“When it comes to capturing the perfect bathroom selfie, your mirror is the star of the show,” says Ruth. “A well-chosen mirror not only reflects light beautifully but also serves as a stylish focal point that enhances the overall aesthetic.”
Ruth advises opting for mirrors with unique shapes or decorative frames to add personality to the space. “An oversized round mirror or a vintage-inspired ornate frame can create a striking backdrop for your photos.”
For an added touch of luxury, she recommends installing a backlit mirror. “This type of mirror provides perfect lighting for selfies while adding a soft, ambient glow that makes the bathroom feel more inviting.”
Play with lighting and reflections
“Lighting is everything when it comes to taking the perfect photo,” Ruth explains. “Incorporate a mix of natural light and strategically placed artificial lighting to highlight your bathroom’s best features.”
She suggests adding statement lighting, such as industrial-style pendant lights, to create drama.
As mentioned above, mirrors are also essential, not only for their practicality but also for bouncing light around the room, making it feel brighter and more spacious.
Go big on a statement ceiling
“The ceiling is often overlooked in bathroom design,” Ruth says, “but this ‘fifth wall’ is a blank canvas just waiting to be transformed.”
Ruth suggests making a bold statement with your ceiling by painting it in the same vibrant colour used on the walls, in order to create a colour-drenching effect.
Alternatively, you could incorporate a textured surface through the use of lime wash paint or include intricate but subtle patterns. “A dramatic ceiling instantly draws the eye upward and adds a layer of intrigue to the space.”
Showcase your personality through accessories
“Accessories are the finishing touches that can elevate your bathroom, making it unique and more interesting for the grid,” says Ruth. “They allow you to infuse your personal style into the space.”
Whether it’s a collection of stylish soap dispensers, a unique shower curtain, or colourful bath mats and towels, these details can elevate the overall design. “Consider matching your accessories to a theme—such as Scandinavian, Art Deco, or minimalist—to create a cohesive look.”
“Remember, it’s these small touches that can transform an ordinary bathroom into a space that is memorable and stands out.”
Embrace bold and unique fixtures
“Statement pieces are key to creating an Instagrammable bathroom,” says Ruth. “Think freestanding tubs, patterned tiles, or a vintage-style vanity. These elements can serve as the focal point of your space.”
Ruth advises choosing fixtures that reflect your personality while complementing the overall aesthetic of your home. “For example, a sleek, modern faucet paired with a classic clawfoot tub can create a striking contrast that’s sure to stand out.”
Opt for a luxe colour palette
“Colour is crucial in setting the mood and ensuring your bathroom is camera-ready,” says Ruth. “While white remains a classic choice, don’t be afraid to experiment with deeper, more luxurious hues.”
Ruth suggests deep navy, emerald green, or even blush pink as chic alternatives to traditional bathroom colours. “These tones not only look sophisticated, but also add depth and character to your space.”
By embracing the unexpected and pushing the boundaries of traditional bathroom design, you can create a space that serves as a retreat and as a bold expression of style and personality. And in doing so, you’ll ensure that your bathroom becomes one of the most Instagrammable rooms in your home.
Leading bathroom brand Scudo, owned by Harrison Bathrooms, has expanded its metallic Vibe radiator collection to include the latest metallic finishes.
Scudo continues to remain at the forefront of designer radiators and towel rails with the introduction of gunmetal and brushed bronze finishes to accompany brushed brass in Vibe.
Peter Woodward, marketing manager at Harrison Bathrooms, comments, “Consumers are becoming bolder and are embracing metallic finishes in their bathrooms to inject personality into bathroom design. Coordinating these radiators with other hardware elements – such as taps, showerheads, towel bars and robe hooks – creates a cohesive look. We offer perfect colour matching with our unrivalled Colour by Scudo service to create a show-stopping vibe to inspire bathroom makeovers.”
From the oasis of a bathroom at home to a luxury hotel, Duravit’s Luv bathtub can be interpreted in numerous ways.
Pared-down design to suit any interior
Quality workmanship and top-of-the-range comfort
Flexible placement: as a freestanding, corner or back-to-wall version
Treat the bathroom to a touch of Scandinavian elegance: the Luv bathtub by Cecilie Manz transforms the room into a stylish design oasis. Inspired by the simple charm of a water bowl, the impressive bathtub, with its gently curved, oval silhouette, blends seamlessly into any interior. Made from the velvety mineral-cast material DuroCast®, the bathtub provides high comfort levels – in the bathroom at home or in a luxury hotel.
Eye-catching design with a feel-good factor
The Luv bathtub demonstrates its adaptability across a range of applications. For example, in the “Blaue Burg” boutique hotel in the Allgäu Alps (pictured bottom left), the calming atmosphere created by the pared-down design and quality workmanship comes to the fore. “We were impressed straight away both by how the Luv bathtub looks and feels. It blends perfectly into the space and offers our guests a perfect feel-good experience,” said Simon Schlachter, hotelier of the “Blaue Burg”.
Luv as a master of metamorphosis
The Luv bathtub continues to demonstrate its potential in a range of scenarios in other high-profile projects. Include, for instance, the Seaview Bungalow in Montauk, California, and the Hotel Villa Copenhagen in the Danish capital (pictured above right). In each case, the bathtub impresses with its high design standards and sleek elegance. Whether freestanding, in the corner, or as a back-to-wall version, a suitable model is available for any application.
Infobox: Luv bathtub variants Free-standing bathtub 1600 x 750 mm & 1800 x 850 mm Back-to-wall version: 1800 x 950 mm Corner version right: 1850 x 950 mm Corner version left: 1850 x 950 mm
Grand Designs Live, a UK home design and innovation exhibition, returns to NEC Birmingham from October 2nd to 6th, 2024, marking the 25th anniversary of the iconic Grand Designs TV show. This milestone event promises an inspiring showcase of design excellence across four key sectors: build, kitchens and bathrooms, gardens, and interiors, featuring expert-led talks and exhibitions.
Highlights include the “Grand House,” an immersive, eco-conscious home that demonstrates the latest in low-carbon and renewable technologies. Visitors will explore beautifully designed rooms by leading architects, showcasing sustainable materials and innovations for green living.
Key attractions include:
Iconic Builds: A special feature on famous Grand Designs houses over the past 25 years.
Live Talks: Insights from industry experts, including renowned host Kevin McCloud.
Ask an Expert: One-on-one consultations with specialists in architecture, construction, and interior design.
Kia UK, the event’s major sponsor, will present its award-winning electric vehicles, further highlighting the event’s focus on design and sustainability.
Grand Designs Live 2024 offers professionals and enthusiasts a wealth of ideas and solutions for eco-friendly, future-proof homes. For more information, visit the official website.
Saniflo has expanded its Saniwall Pro Up range with a new model, bringing the lineup to three core options: glass, tiles, and wall panels.
The new Saniwall Pro Up Style features two contemporary panel designs in grey concrete or Carrera marble patterns to complement any bathroom décor. These panels are stylish and practical, lightweight, durable, and easy to clean. Constructed with a polyethylene core and two aluminium layers, they offer a robust blend of flexibility and strength. Installation is straightforward with no preparatory work needed, and the panels are fully waterproof. For maintenance, the panels provide excellent access: the bottom panel slides out after removing the WC pan, and the top panel pops out after removing the flush button.
The Saniwall Pro Up Style is a concealed unit ideal for bathrooms or shower rooms where gravity-fed plumbing is impractical or costly. Its innovative frame supports all types of wall-hung WCs and incorporates Grohe cistern technology. The unit includes a macerator pump with a dual flush system, capable of pumping waste up to five metres vertically and 100 metres horizontally. It also features four inlets for a complete shower room installation and adjustable feet for varying pan heights. The unit comes with an extended five-year warranty.
A simple bathroom has been transformed into a tranquil haven within a traditional Pennsylvania Dutch farmhouse. It blends historic charm with modern luxury and is an inspiring example for bathroom designers.
Owned by a prominent American set designer with decades of scenic design experience, the interior reflects the artistry found in theatre production. The owner’s career highlights include work at the Metropolitan Opera and a Tony Award nomination for the musical “Grey Gardens” in 2007. The farmhouse, dating back to 1814, is a stunning representation of Pennsylvania German architecture, originally featuring three rooms per floor – a layout evocative of Andrew Wyeth’s paintings, with Wyeth himself having lived just 50 minutes away.
Over 17 years, the home has been carefully renovated to blend historic integrity with modern comforts. A two-storey extension added a spacious reception area and a luxurious first-floor bathroom, marking the home’s evolution from a weekend retreat to a permanent residence. With a focus on maintaining the home’s architectural heritage, a working fireplace visible from the bathtub creates a cosy and inviting atmosphere, a feature bathroom designers may wish to explore in their own projects.
In collaboration with Joe Hammes of Red Oak Restorations, careful attention was paid to the proportions and layout of the extension. Material choices were equally thoughtful, with White Oak used for both ceiling and flooring, harmonising with the original structure. An antique Pennsylvania Day Bed was sourced, echoing William Morris’s Arts and Crafts movement, and placed before the fireplace to enhance the room’s rustic character. Plates depicting Richard Wagner opera scenes were also incorporated, adding personal flair – a nod to the owner’s passion for theatre. These were originally purchased from the Bayreuth Festival’s gift shop in the late 19th century.
Large Italian tiles were chosen for the shower, offering a grout-free, low-maintenance alternative to marble while maintaining the aesthetic balance between tradition and modern functionality. The trim was painted using Fine Paints of Europe’s Watermark to further enhance the room’s period-appropriate appearance. At the same time, Farrow and Ball’s James’ White Estate Emulsion was selected for the walls.
The bath, vanity, and brassware were sourced from Drummonds, reflecting the owner’s fondness for historic English plumbing. A polished cast iron bath, reminiscent of antique pewter, and solid Drummonds taps and shower mixers were chosen for their durability and timeless design – a perfect choice for designers seeking a combination of elegance and authenticity.
This remarkable renovation, a collaboration between the owner and skilled craftspeople, showcases how period homes can be sympathetically updated to provide luxurious, modern living spaces. It serves as a source of inspiration for designers aiming to create bathrooms that are both functional and steeped in historical character.
